Verification of Unusual Sight Record
For Utah

Rec. # 2013-86


Common name:

Zone-tailed Hawk

Scientific name: Buteo albonotatus
Date: 08-29-2013
Time: 20 seconds
Length of time observed:  
Number: 1
Age:  
Sex:  
Location: Lava Point, Zion National Park
County: Washington
Latilong: 19
Elevation: 3390m
Distance to bird: 100 m
Optical equipment: 8 x 42 binoculars
Weather: clear
Light Conditions: afternoon sun
Description:        Size of bird:  
(Description:)       Basic Shape:  
(Description:)  Overall Pattern:  
(Description:)            Bill Type:  
(Description:)                              
Field Marks and
Identifying Characteristics:
Dark (black) overall with pale vermiculated wing linings, yellow cere and feet, and long tail with black and white bands (3), center white band broadest, thin white terminal band. Long wings with splayed primary tips.
(see photos)
Song or call & method of delivery:  
Behavior:  
Habitat:  
Similar species and how
were they eliminated:
Superficially similar to a Turkey Vulture in wing pattern and flight style, distinguished by vermiculation on wing feathers and banded tail.
Longer wings and tail than Common Black-Hawk
Previous experience with
this & similar species:
yes
References consulted:  
Description from: Notes taken at the time of the sighting
Observer: Rick Fridell
Observer's address:  
Observer's e-mail address: **
Other observers who independently identified this bird:  
Date prepared: 12-04-2013
Additional material: Photos
Additional_Comments: First Zone-tailed Hawk I ve observed in Washington County since 04/24/08 and the first in the Lava Point / Kolob Meadows areas since 08/01/07.